Just as you come up with resolutions to help change the course of your life in a new year, it’s also an ideal time to reevaluate your décor choices. To help, Realtor.com consulted with some experts to find out which looks are going by the wayside in 2020 and why. Here are 10 suggestions on what to ditch, and how to decorate instead as you enter into a new decade.
1. Lone accent wall
One little accent wall won’t cut it anymore. Instead, try boldly entering into the new decade by washing all of your walls in a vibrant color (including millwork and trim) to create a more powerful and sophisticated look. Rooms clad entirely in wallpaper also are becoming popular.
2. Minimalist designs
The “less is more” mantra seems to have gone by the wayside in 2020. The new year is all about doing away with tiny, sleek furniture and going big—everywhere. That means less monochromatic palettes and neutral interiors and riskier décor. Think visual boldness: solids mixed with stripes, mixed with plaids, mixed with polka dots.
3. Faux natural materials
Expect wood-looking porcelain plank tile and faux stone to make an exit in 2020. While basements are a prime spot for these products, the rest of the home should be dressed in authentic details. Say no to faux, and opt instead for the real deal to add more character to your home.
4. Rose gold and millennial pink
Although most mixed metals likely will still be around in 2020, rose gold seems to have reached its expiration date. Soft pinks and blushed hues (referred to as millennial pinks) also are on the decline. That doesn’t mean pinks will disappear completely, but you can expect to see bolder shades such as magentas and corals in 2020.
5. Farmhouse style
Due to its lack of personality, many professional interior designers are ready to put this ubiquitous, put-together look rife with mass-produced furnishings out to pasture in lieu of more unique, one-of-a-kind pieces.
Look for more eclectic style mixes, with heirlooms and vintage items making a comeback. You can still include some of your favorite farmhouse decors; just try mixing it with one-of-a-kind finds to create a space that is truly your own.
6. Cool and light neutrals
Warmer tones such as light browns, toasty beiges and creamy whites have started to replace standard gray, navy and emerald green neutrals. Expect more of that in 2020, but with a twist: This year’s truly hot neutral will be saturated and bold, with a resurgence of warm earth-tone hues like champagne, mushroom, ochre, amber, and jade.
7. Fast furniture
Budget-friendly and short-life-span furniture that isn’t eco-friendly continues to be on the decline due to increasing awareness of global warming. As consumers become more aware of their carbon footprint and reducing waste, products that are eco-friendly will be trending.
8. Neon word signs
While they look cool with illuminated at night, those catchy neon phrases showcased on Instagram by celebrities such as the Kardashians and Justin Bieber are on the way out because their effect during the daytime is largely lacking in luster. Don’t unplug from this look entirely, though. Instead, try incorporating backlit art that captures people’s attention and is truly a conversation piece.
9. Bedding in a kit
Almost everyone has purchased bedding in a bag at some point in their life. After all, it’s so easy. You typically get a comforter, two shams and a couple of matching accent pillows all in one kit.
The problem with these effortless bedding packages, however, is that they scream “no effort” in an age of authenticity, boldness and personal expression. Instead, try showing off your creative side by adding hand-sewn linens and individual items, layers, and mixed patterns and textures.
10. Open floor plans
For years, homeowners have enjoyed the idea of being able to see everybody in the kitchen while in the living room or even the dining room. But some folks have started to tire of all the openness and are craving a little more privacy.
This is especially true for millennials—who will be the single-largest demographic of homebuyers in 2020 and are seeking more well-defined spaces for living, working, eating and cooking.